Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Scooter-geek's dream ride: Yamaha Vino scooter, fully farkled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/08/scooter-geeks-dream-ride-yamaha-vino-scooter-fully-farkled/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/08/scooter-geeks-dream-ride-yamaha-vino-scooter-fully-farkled/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/08/scooter-geeks-dream-ride-yamaha-vino-scooter-fully-farkled/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Though it's usually the adventure touring crowd that excels at turning their motorcycles into rolling technology test-beds, we've recently run across a Yamaha Vino scooter that has been fully farkled. Featuring an on-board computer based around a VIA mini ITX form factor motherboard that's cleverly been hidden under the stock Vino's seat, this rolling geek-mobile packs in WiFi, Bluetooth, USB, GPS, FM radio, a TV tuner and a front-mounted camera in its diminutive frame. With the full-spec computer, pretty much anything should be possible right from the road using this scooter. While this is certainly a cool project, we have a few questions regarding its durability. How long will the acrylic plate that makes the structure for the computer hold up? Perhaps most importantly, how long will the scooter's battery be able to power all this technology? In the name of science, of course, we graciously offer our services for a road trip on the machine to find the answer to these all-important questions. Thanks for the tip, jared!

[Source: Thought Lab]

 

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]]>farklefarkledgeek scootergeek-scooterGeekScooteryamaha vinoyamaha-vinoYamahaVino2008-05-08T19:00:00+00:00<![CDATA[Cadillac bringing ethanol hybrid chopper to LA Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/cadillac-bringing-ethanol-hybrid-chopper-to-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/cadillac-bringing-ethanol-hybrid-chopper-to-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/cadillac-bringing-ethanol-hybrid-chopper-to-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cadillac chief Jim Taylor likes him some motorcycles, so it's not all too surprising that he commissioned a Cadillac-themed chopper from Great American Chopper in Clawson, Michigan (at right). What is surprising is that Cadillac has commissioned a second chopper from V20 Consulting out of New York City that will be an ethanol hybrid capable of running on corn fuel or pure electrons. It can reportedly even reach 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Cadillac plans to unveil the bike at the LA Auto Show later this year, but the thing we can't figure out is what motorcycles or hybrid powertrains have to do with Cadillac, which has never been associated with either. The source says that the bike is supposed to display GM's "strength in science and technology". How about delivering the series hybrid Volt on time? That's the only evidence of GM's strength in science and technology that we need.

UPDATE: Cadillac contacted us to clarify that in fact it didn't commission either motorcycle, but both custom bike-building shops are building these choppers on their own, and Cadillac has given them permission to use its logo and branding. It was also pointed out that the Cadillac Escalade Two-Mode Hybrid is almost here, so in fact the wreath and crest will soon be getting its first hybrid.

[Source: D Business via Winding Road]

 

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]]>cadillaccadillac chopperscadillac ethanol hybrid choppercadillac ethanol hybrid motorcyclecadillac hybrid choppercadillac hybrid motorcyclecadillac motorcyclesCadillacChoppersCadillacEthanolHybridChopperCadillacEthanolHybridMotorcycleCadillacHybridChopperCadillacHybridMotorcycleCadillacMotorcycles2008-05-06T15:28:00+00:00<![CDATA[VIDEO: Sometimes it's best to quit while you're ahead]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/05/video-sometimes-its-best-to-quit-while-youre-ahead/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/05/video-sometimes-its-best-to-quit-while-youre-ahead/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/05/video-sometimes-its-best-to-quit-while-youre-ahead/#commentsFiled under: ,



Professionals earn pockets full of cheese usually because they do whatever it is they do better, faster, stronger than anyone else. Sometimes, though, they get the big bucks because they'll do something again after having nearly killed themselves the first time. That is: they'll get right back on the horse when a lot of non-professionals would instead grab a gin and tonic and watch reruns of I Love Lucy.

Jorge Lorenzo earned his money and a stay in hospital over the weekend during practice for the MotoGP China Grand Prix. On one run the bike bucked under him coming out of a turn, sending the 21-year-old rider up out of his seat like he was riding a bronco, but he managed to keep the bike upright and moving. On a following run he wasn't so fortunate, highsiding, somersaulting, and suffering a fractured left ankle, a painful right ankle, a cut heel, a knee abrasion, and forearm compression.

But here's where Lorenzo really impresses: he still got on the bike to qualify on Saturday, and came in fourth in Sunday's race. Follow the jump to check out the videos of the bucking incident and the highside. And from now on, the word you're looking for to describe Jorge Lorenzo: pro.

[Source: Axis of Oversteer]

Continue reading VIDEO: Sometimes it's best to quit while you're ahead

 

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]]>accidentscrashesjorge lorenzoJorgeLorenzomoto gpmoto gp 08MotoGpMotoGp08motorcycle accidentmotorcycle racingMotorcycleAccidentmotorcyclecrashMotorcycleRacingyamaha fiatYamahaFiat2008-05-05T13:57:00+00:00<![CDATA[Harley-Davidson gets into product placement in new Indiana Jones flick]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/30/harley-davidson-gets-into-product-placement-in-new-indiana-jones/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/30/harley-davidson-gets-into-product-placement-in-new-indiana-jones/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/30/harley-davidson-gets-into-product-placement-in-new-indiana-jones/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click on the image for more shots of Indiana's Harley-Davidson

It seems that the marketing folks at Harley-Davidson have managed to get a bit of product placement for themselves, following the likes of Audi with Iron Man, Volkswagen with The Bourne Ultimatum and GM with Transformers. The new Indiana Jones movie, titled 'Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of Crystal Skull' features both Harrison Ford and Shia The Le Beouf riding what appears at first glance to be an old Harley. Upon closer inspection, the bike is actually a new model, complete with fuel injection and Harley's new six-speed transmission. The movie-crew manages to make the bike look much older by using parts from older machines, such as the old Sportster tank and pre-war "beehive" tail light. Look real close and you may even notice the fake kick-starter which must just be welded to the frame.

As a celebration of the upcoming movie's use of the bike, every Harley dealership will reportedly get the chance to order 30 pairs of free tickets to the movie to be given away as a promotion to customers.

Gallery: Indiana Jones Harley Springer


[Source: Cyril Huze Blog, Harrison Ford Web]

 

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]]>harleyharley davidsonharley-davidsonharley-davidson hogHarley-davidsonHogHarleyDavidsonindiana jonesindiana jones 4indiana jones and th...indiana jones ivindiana-jonesIndianaJonesIndianaJones4IndianaJonesAndTh...IndianaJonesIv2008-04-30T09:34:00+00:00<![CDATA[Rumormill: Tata looking to buy stake in MV Agusta]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/28/rumormill-tata-looking-to-buy-stake-in-mv-agusta/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/28/rumormill-tata-looking-to-buy-stake-in-mv-agusta/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/28/rumormill-tata-looking-to-buy-stake-in-mv-agusta/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click on the image above for pictures of the Brutale 910 R

Volkswagen may not be the only auto manufacturer interesting in a storied Italian motorcycle maker. Hot on the heels of its purchase of Jaguar and Land Rover, rumors are swirling that Tata may be considering purchasing a stake in MV Agusta. According to a few Indian and Italian sources, Ratan Tata, chairman of the Tata Group, is reportedly in talks with Claudio Castiglioni, the man running the show at MV Agusta.

Tata's involvement with MV Agusta could inject a unique flavor to the Indian conglomerate's portfolio, which has already been boosted by its acquisition of the two aforementioned classic British marques. A healthy injection of cash could do wonders for MV Agusta as well, considering what it has already proven capable of even in its currently meager financial position.

Gallery: MV Agusta Brutale 910R


[Sources: Faster and Faster, India Automotive, Motoblog]

 

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]]>motorcyclemotorcyclesmv agustamv-agustaMvAgustatatatata motorcycletata motorstata mv agustatata-motorcycletata-motorstata-mv agustatata-mv-agustaTata-mvAgustaTataMotorcycleTataMotorsTataMvAgusta2008-04-28T13:03:00+00:00<![CDATA[Awesome-Ness custom bike exhibit to open in May]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/25/awesome-ness-custom-bike-exhibit-to-open-in-may/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/25/awesome-ness-custom-bike-exhibit-to-open-in-may/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/25/awesome-ness-custom-bike-exhibit-to-open-in-may/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click on the image to view three classic Arlen Ness customs

Arlen Ness, a legend to the custom bike community, started out by painting customer bikes on the weekends as he worked to deliver furniture during the week to pay the bills. Gradually, his skills and reputation transformed his small company into the parts-selling juggernaut that it is today. Along the way, Ness has created quite a few one-off creations, many of which are now considered to be classics. Some of them, like the '57 Chevy knock-off "Ness-talgia", twin-engined and twin-supercharged "Ferrari-bike" (above) and Bugatti-inspired "Smooth-Ness" recall iconic automotive designs of years past. According to Ness, those three bikes represent some of his personal favorites, and each of them, along with many others, will be on display at an upcoming exhibit at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio called Awesome-Ness. Interested in attending? The event will run from July 24 through the end of June 2009.

Gallery: Arlen Ness Motorcycles


[Source: Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum]

 

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]]>arlen nessarlen ness mororcyclesarlen-nessarlen-ness-motorcyclesArlenNessArlenNessMororcyclescustom motorcyclecustom motorcyclescustom-motorcyclecustom-motorcyclesCustomMotorcycleCustomMotorcyclesmotorcyclemotorcycle museummotorcycle-museumMotorcycleMuseummotorcycles2008-04-25T07:58:00+00:00<![CDATA[Officially Official: BMW S 1000 RR race bike]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/17/officially-official-bmw-s-1000-rr-race-bike/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/17/officially-official-bmw-s-1000-rr-race-bike/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/17/officially-official-bmw-s-1000-rr-race-bike/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the BMW S 1000 RR

Let the speculation end! BMW has officially pulled the covers off of its S 1000 RR race bike, which will sprout a production model next year. General Director of BMW Motorrad Hendrik von Kuenheim says that the company is committed to building 1,000 units of the new model next year. Featuring a 1000cc inline-four transversely mounted between the frame rails and an upside-down front fork, the RR is rather conventional by BMW standards. This has allowed the Motorrad to keep the bike as compact as possible, which can be attested to by the fact that it has been spotted lapping tracks in Yamaha R6 bodywork. So far, no specifications have been given regarding power levels, but we fully expect it to be competitive with the Superbike front-runners. Traction control is also reportedly put to good use. Judging from the extensive use of (bare) carbon fiber, we'd expect the weight to be on par with the competition, as well. There's an entire speech pasted after the break, so be sure to check it out.

BMW plans to crack the top ten next year in World Superbike racing and is expecting podium finishes the following year. Considering the fact that the Big Four Japanese manufacturers literally have a head start measuring a few decades on BMW, it's probably wise to set attainable goals for now. Though we're looking forward to more details regarding the S 1000 RR superbike, at least we have some pretty pictures to gaze at until then.

Gallery: BMW S 1000 RR


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Officially Official: BMW S 1000 RR race bike

 

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]]>bmwbmw s 1000 rrbmw superbikebmw-s-1000-rrbmw-superbikeBmwS1000RrBmwSuperbikeworld super bikeworld superbikeworld-super-bikeWorldSuperBike2008-04-17T10:14:00+00:00<![CDATA[VW Chairman Piech wants to buy motorcycle manufacturer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/16/vw-chairman-piech-wants-to-buy-motorcycle-manufacturer/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/16/vw-chairman-piech-wants-to-buy-motorcycle-manufacturer/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/16/vw-chairman-piech-wants-to-buy-motorcycle-manufacturer/#commentsFiled under: ,


click on the above image to view a high-res gallery of the VW GX3

Ferdinand Peich, the Chairman of Volkswagen, wishes that the German automaker had purchased Ducati all the way back in 1985 when the iconic Italian motorcycle marque was experiencing financial troubles and was for sale. "I would still like a small, valuable motorcycle manufacturer," says the 71-year-old Peich, who rides a Ducati himself. Considering the close ties that Volkswagen has with Porsche, which helped create Harley-Davidson's sportiest models, we could imagine some amazing two-wheeled creations rolling out of Wolfsburg. In fact, there's a certain three-wheeler called the GX3 that we'd love to see back in the product pipeline ASAP.

Gallery: Volkswagen GX3 Concept


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

 

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]]>ducatimotorcyclevolkswagenvolkswagen gx3volkswagen motorcyclevolkswagen-gx3volkswagen-motorcycleVolkswagenGx3VolkswagenMotorcycle2008-04-16T13:33:00+00:00<![CDATA[Schumacher fills in at Ducati test, Raikkonen could be next]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/07/schumacher-fills-in-at-ducati-test-raikkonen-could-be-next/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/07/schumacher-fills-in-at-ducati-test-raikkonen-could-be-next/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/07/schumacher-fills-in-at-ducati-test-raikkonen-could-be-next/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Actions speak louder than words. Surely a multiple world champion driver like Michael Schumacher would appreciate such a principal, yet the retired Formula One driver continues to proclaim that he has no intention of competing in MotoGP despite his actions suggesting otherwise. After bringing you previous reports of Schumacher dazzling the crowds at various motorcycle races, comes news that Schumi was called up by the Ducati team to fill in for its injured test driver. The Italian motorcycle racing team was in the middle of a three-day test session when its official test rider Vittoriano Guareschi was injured after falling off his bike, precluding him from continuing with the tests. Rather than call on any of what surely must be a long list of eager and experienced motorcyclists to take Guareschi's place, Ducati called Michael and asked him to step in.

Meanwhile Schumacher's successor at Ferrari, reigning world champion and current points leader Kimi Raikkonen, an experienced motocross rider, uncharacteristically commented at this weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix that he'd like to follow in Schumacher's footpegs and try out a MotoGP racing bike, however Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali put the brakes on the prospect for the time being by commenting that Kimi has enough on his hands focusing on defending his title on four wheels.

[Source: F1-Live and Autosport]

 

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]]>ferrari motogpferrari motorbikeferrari motorcycleFerrariMotogpFerrariMotorbikeFerrariMotorcycleraikkonenraikkonen ducatiraikkonen motogpraikkonen motorbikeraikkonen motorcycleRaikkonenDucatiRaikkonenMotogpRaikkonenMotorbikeRaikkonenMotorcycleschumacherschumacher ducatischumacher motogpschumacher raikkonen motogpSchumacherDucatiSchumacherMotogpSchumacherRaikkonenMotogp2008-04-07T20:57:00+00:00<![CDATA[VIDEO: Six records broken at Crusty Demons Night of World Records]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/06/video-six-records-broken-at-crusty-demons-night-of-world-record/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/06/video-six-records-broken-at-crusty-demons-night-of-world-record/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/06/video-six-records-broken-at-crusty-demons-night-of-world-record/#commentsFiled under: , ,



After a three-way jump-off between Robbie Maddison, Ryan Capes and Seth Enslow at Calder Park on March 28 in Melbourne, Australia, a new world record for the longest distance jump from ramp to ramp on a motorcycle was set at over 351 feet by Robbie Maddison. In fact, the record was beaten twice that night, with Ryan Capes briefly holding the record at 324 feet, which was two feet more than Maddison's previous record.

In other news, five other world records were set that same night:
  • Longest backflip ramp to ramp: Cameron Sinclair, existing record: 125-feet; new world record: 129 feet and 7 inches
  • Longest mini bike distance jump: Brent Brady broke the world record with a jump of 104 feet and 7 inches
  • Longest distance jump ramp to ramp by a quad motorcycle: John Guetter, existing record: 148.9 feet; the new record: 176 feet 11 inches
  • Most swords swallowed: Chayne Hultgren, existing record: 14; new world record: 17
  • Heaviest weight lifted while swallowing a sword: Cheyne Hultgren, existing record: 20.1kg; new world record: 22.4kg
Judging by the records that were broken in one night, we think the world is begging for a new category. How about longest distance jump on a motorcycle while swallowing a sword. Any takers?

Watch a video of both long distance motorcycle record jumps after the break!

[Source: Crusty.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: Six records broken at Crusty Demons Night of World Records

 

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]]>crusty demonscrusty-demonsCrustyDemonsmotorcycle jumpmotorcycle-jumpMotorcycleJumprobbie maddisonrobbie-maddisonRobbieMaddisonsword swallowingsword-swallowingSwordSwallowingworld recordworld-recordWorldRecord2008-04-06T09:01:00+00:00<![CDATA[MV Agusta and Citroen reveal C2 1587 Brutale]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/05/mv-agusta-and-citroen-reveal-c2-1587-brutale/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/05/mv-agusta-and-citroen-reveal-c2-1587-brutale/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/05/mv-agusta-and-citroen-reveal-c2-1587-brutale/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click on the image to view more high-res shots

We've grown rather accustomed to seeing special-edition MV Agusta Brutales, but this is the first time that one has featured four wheels. MV Agusta and Citroën have teamed up to produce a two-door hatchback show car called the C2 1587 Brutale. The naming scheme and the color pallete are clearly inspired by what is arguably Italy's hottest naked bike, the MV Agusta 1078 RR Brutale. We're not clear on what other tie-in exists between the two vehicles beyond that, though. Featuring a 1.6 liter 16-valve engine with 125 hp, the C2 1587 Brutale's power output is nowhere near as impressive as its two-wheeled inspiration. We do like the interior, which features plenty of black leather and alcantara with red outlines and stitching. Ultimately, we feel that this is one mash-up that the world probably could have done without.

Gallery: Citroen C2 1587 Brutale


[Source: MV Agusta]

 

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]]>1587 brutale1587-brutale1587Brutalebrutalebrutale 1078brutale-1078Brutale1078citroenmv agustamv-agustaMvAgusta2008-04-05T18:02:00+00:00<![CDATA[April Foolery: Indy MotoGP organizers blow all the cash on Nazi hookers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/01/april-foolery-indy-motogp-organizers-blow-all-the-cash-on-nazi/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/01/april-foolery-indy-motogp-organizers-blow-all-the-cash-on-nazi/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/01/april-foolery-indy-motogp-organizers-blow-all-the-cash-on-nazi/#commentsFiled under: ,

Oh no. First the U.S. Grand Prix, and now the MotoGP race. It seems that Indianapolis Motor Speedway just can't hold on to any international races that roll its way. In a particularly blatant (but no less humorous) April Fool's Day note left on the event's website, race organizers have announced the cancellation of the inaugural MotoGP race, set to take place at the brickyard on September 14:

MotoGP has been cancelled due to financial restraints and the inability to manage funds efficiently. In other words, we spent all the money on prostitutes dressed like Nazis. We are sad to inform you that you will not be getting any money back spent on tickets. Sorry...

Granted that the note won't have anyone fooled, but the jab taken at the F1 fiasco on the same track three years ago and at Max Mosley was enough to get a chuckle. Thanks for the tip, Barry!

[Source: IndianaMotoGP.com]

 

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]]>april fool motogpapril fool's dayAprilFool'sDayAprilFoolMotogpims motogpImsMotogpindianapolis gpIndianapolisGpmotogp indianapolisMotogpIndianapolis2008-04-01T18:31:00+00:00<![CDATA[Schumacher back on two wheels for pro bike race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/01/schumacher-back-on-two-wheels-for-pro-bike-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/01/schumacher-back-on-two-wheels-for-pro-bike-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/01/schumacher-back-on-two-wheels-for-pro-bike-race/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Michael Schumacher made an auspicious motorcycle racing debut at the Misano track in Italy on Sunday. The race was the seven-time F1 champion's first professional competition on two wheels, following last week's amateur event in Hungary.

The short ten-lap event was run on 990cc KTM Super Duke motorbikes, on which Schumacher managed to qualify third and finish an impressive fourth, having dropped down to 14th and fought his way back up through the field. Schumacher was quick to assert, however, that this was a casual pursuit and not the start of a second career. Cautious reservations aside, we wouldn't be surprised to see the champ sporadically climb back onto various two-wheeled racing machines for the occasional race here or there.

[Source: Autosport, Photo by STR/AFP/Getty]

 

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]]>michael schumacherMichaelSchumacherschumacherschumacher ktm misanoschumacher motorbikeschumacher motorcycleSchumacherKtmMisanoSchumacherMotorbikeSchumacherMotorcycle2008-04-01T14:39:00+00:00<![CDATA[The Wickerbike - a greener kind of Harley]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/30/the-wickerbike-a-greener-kind-of-harley/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/30/the-wickerbike-a-greener-kind-of-harley/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/30/the-wickerbike-a-greener-kind-of-harley/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click to see more pictures of the Wickerbike

We can't actually remember ever meeting the elusive crack band of Russian bikers known as Hell's Weavers, but we now have definitive proof that the group does indeed exist. Eschewing the dangerous rough-and-tumble lifestyle of drinking and running amok, the Weavers are rumored to have a much kinder, gentler side. With this in mind, we'd like to present the result of their latest weekend basket-weaving get-together, the Wickerbike.

The Wickerbike appears to be a nearly 1:1 replica of Harley-Davidson's new FLSTSB Cross Bones, including the mini-ape-hangers, solo saddle and springer fork. We have little additional commentary to offer, other than pointing out the fact that the work done, such as it is, appears to be of a very high quality.

Gallery: The Wickerbike


[Source: Snegopad via Winding Road]

 

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]]>harley davidsonharley davidson russiaharley-davidsonharley-davidson (hog)harley-davidson russiaHarley-davidson(hog)Harley-davidsonRussiaHarleyDavidsonHarleyDavidsonRussiarussiarussian harleyrussian harley-davidsonrussian-harleyRussianHarleyRussianHarley-davidsonwickerwicker bikewickerbike2008-03-30T09:00:00+00:00<![CDATA[Travis Pastrana invents and completes the hydrojump]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/27/travis-pastrana-invents-and-completes-the-hydrojump/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/27/travis-pastrana-invents-and-completes-the-hydrojump/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/27/travis-pastrana-invents-and-completes-the-hydrojump/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a few more pics of the hydrojump

Motocrosser, X-Game gold-medal winner and Subaru USA rally car driver extraordinaire Travis Pastrana has once again gone and done something so crazy that we wonder how the man can still be among the living. Previously, Pastrana became the first rider ever to land a double-backflip in competition, and now he's gone and done something else unthinkable: the hydrojump. After speeding to about 70 miles per hour, Pastrana hydroplaned his Suzuki dirtbike in five-foot deep water for 110 feet, ending after launching himself and his bike off a floating FMX ramp. According to his official site, they are still searching for Pastrana's bike at the bottom of the lake, a water-filled volcanic crater in Costa Rica. Apparently, the bike was bone-stock with no modifications in order to ensure that the hydroplaning was successful. We've made a gallery of a few more pictures, and the video of the jump will be available in November on the sixth Nitro Circus DVD.

Gallery: Travis Pastrana hydrojump


[Source: Travis Pastrana via Hell For Leather Magazine]

Continue reading Travis Pastrana invents and completes the hydrojump

 

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]]>hydro jumphydro-jumphydrojumptravis pastranatravis-pastranaTravisPastrana2008-03-27T14:01:00+00:00<![CDATA[A Ferrari motorcycle? Only in our 1:12 scale dreams]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/a-ferrari-motorcycle-only-in-our-1-12-scale-dreams/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/a-ferrari-motorcycle-only-in-our-1-12-scale-dreams/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/a-ferrari-motorcycle-only-in-our-1-12-scale-dreams/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click on the image above for more high-res shots of the Ferrari Motorcycle model

There are plenty of awe-inspiring Italian motorcycles for us to dream about, but still, a Ferrari motorcycle would surely be a welcome addition to the sportbike ranks. Just what might a superbike designed by Ferrari look like? We can imagine a carbon fiber frame for starters, and surely there would need to be plenty of red bodywork. As a matter of fact, we think that a Ferrari motorcycle would look quite a bit like the scale model you see above. Scale Auto Magazine member andybmw7272 started of his project with a Yamaha kit from Tamiya, but everything has been modified to suit the project. We're sure you'll agree that it was extremely well done, and it gives us something to think about should Maranello ever decide to venture into the two-wheeled market.

Gallery: 1:12 Scale Ferrari Motorcycle


[Source: Scale Auto Magazine via Hell for Leather Magazine]

 

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]]>ferrar motorcycleferrariferrari-motorcycleFerrarMotorcyclemotorcyclescale modelscale-modelScaleModel2008-03-25T19:01:00+00:00<![CDATA[Schumacher surprises at motorcycle race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/schumacher-surprises-at-motorcycle-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/schumacher-surprises-at-motorcycle-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/schumacher-surprises-at-motorcycle-race/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Remember those rumors that Michael Schumacher was gearing up to race motorcycles? Well, despite the initial denials, the retired seven-time F1 champion surprised crowds at the Pannonia-Ring in Hungary by showing up on the grid for a motorcycle race.

The paddock was filled largely by amateur riders, but Schumacher was joined in his appearance by IDM (German Superbike) champion Martin Bauer on 1000cc Honda Superbikes and fellow IDM rider Andy Meklau. On his motorbike racing debut, Schumacher took pole despite only running a few practice laps beforehand, but opted to start the race with the IDM pros who were handicapped with back-of-the-grid starting positions. That didn't stop the seasoned trio from dominating the event, however, as they filled the podium, Schumi coming in third. (Schumacher, however, shied away from the limelight by not attending the podium ceremony.) Although Schumi's lap times were six seconds slower than the IDM pair, he was some 0.6 seconds faster than the rest of the field. Not bad for his first race. Not too bad at all.

[Source: Autosport]

 

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]]>motorcycleschumacherschumacher motogpschumacher motorcycleschumacher superbikeSchumacherMotogpSchumacherMotorcycleSchumacherSuperbike2008-03-25T09:31:00+00:00<![CDATA[Luber Custom Stilet features post-apocalypse look]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/luber-custom-stilet-features-post-apocalypse-look/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/luber-custom-stilet-features-post-apocalypse-look/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/luber-custom-stilet-features-post-apocalypse-look/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click on the image above for more high-res shots of the Luber Stilet

Looking like it just time-warped from the set of Mad Max into the Motobike Salon in Moscow, Russia, is the Luber Custom Stilet trike. What looks like rusty metal body panels is really just an airbrushed effect; the body is molded from fiberglass. Powered by a 300 horsepower 5.7 liter V8 and automatic tranny of unmentioned origin (probably a Chevy 350), we imagine that this trike has no problem getting out of its own way.

Not into the post-apocalyptic look? No problem, Luber appears happy to paint the machine to suit your preferences, all for the price of $50 grand. This is one machine that will definitely stand apart from the crowd, whether at a bike show or your local hangout... which is more than we can say for the majority of bikes rolling out of the custom shops these days. Thanks for the tip, Greg!

Gallery: Luber Custom Stilet Trike


[Source: cardesign.ru / Luber Custom)

 

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]]>luberluber stiletluber-stiletLuberStiletmad maxmad-maxMadMax2008-03-24T19:28:00+00:00<![CDATA[*POOF* No injuries! - Dainese D-Air suit latest in motorcycle airbag technology]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/poof-no-injuries-motorcycle-airbag-suit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/poof-no-injuries-motorcycle-airbag-suit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/poof-no-injuries-motorcycle-airbag-suit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to view video

Motorcycles always have that ever-present danger of turning their operators into hamburger should the rider take a spill. Racing crashes are especially nasty, and while leathers do offer protection from road rash, cushioning impacts to the upper torso is key to increasing survivability. Dainese, a manufacturer of cycling equipment, has been working on an airbag system to help riders avoid injury called the D-Air suit. The system relies on accelerometers and gyroscopic sensors embedded in the suit, and when a computer determines there's a need, an upper-body airbag is deployed in less than a half a second. It looks like a similar, although much more complicated design, than the Airbag Jacket by Impact Jackets, which has already saved at least one life that we know about. Of course, this would all be avoidable if people didn't insist on climbing onto a powerful engine supported by the minimum of wheels and zooming around at the highest possible velocity, but what fun is that? Check out video of the Dainese D-Air suit after the jump.

[Source: Winding Road]

Continue reading *POOF* No injuries! - Dainese D-Air suit latest in motorcycle airbag technology

 

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]]>airbagairbag jacketAirbagJacketairbagsmotorcyclemotorcycle accidentmotorcycle crashmotorcycle racingMotorcycleAccidentMotorcycleCrashMotorcycleRacingmotorcyclesmotorsportsmotorsports safetyMotorsportsSafetyracingracing safetyRacingSafetysafety2008-03-24T11:28:00+00:00<![CDATA[Mint condition Yamaha R6 for sale... just don't buy like this guy did]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/mint-condition-r6-for-sale-just-dont-buy-like-this-guy-did/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/mint-condition-r6-for-sale-just-dont-buy-like-this-guy-did/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/mint-condition-r6-for-sale-just-dont-buy-like-this-guy-did/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We always appreciate when folks can give it to us straight. Even if they've done something, um, regrettable, they can at least admit it, give us a no-bull explanation, and we can all get on with the show. Next up in the Please Relieve Me of My Mistake category is a gent in Seattle who got rid of his Ford Explorer for a Yamaha R6, only to realize that sportbikes weren't the must-have accessory he thought they were.

After buying it because it had shiny tires due to Armor All, laying it down in the parking lot at 5-mph, not having the desired effect on females, and putting just 3,000 miles on it, he has decided it's time for the R6 to go. It's possibly the only classified ad to include the word "douchecanoe", and the only R6 to allegedly come with side impact airbags, heated and cooled cupholders from a MINI Cooper, and a Wendy's Baconator coupon. Follow the link for your chance to purchase a piece of shattered dreams. The laughs you'll have while reading come free of charge.

[Source: craigslist]

 

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]]>craigslistyamahayamaha r6YamahaR62008-03-22T17:41:00+00:00